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Operational Test Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Operational Test Engineer We're seeking an experienced Operational Test Engineer to lead and execute operational test planning, conduct ground and flight test activities, and deliver timely, data ...

Operational Test Analyst Location: Fort Huachuca, AZ Clearance Level: Top Secret/SCI, Must Have Clearance to Start Required Certification(s): Recommended but not limited to Agile SAFe, Scrum ...

Operational Test Engineer We're seeking an experienced Operational Test Engineer to lead and execute operational test planning, conduct ground and flight test activities, and deliver timely, data ...

Operational Test Engineer We're seeking an experienced Operational Test Engineer to lead and execute operational test planning, conduct ground and flight test activities, and deliver timely, data ...

ORSA Technologies is seeking experienced Operational Test Engineer (OTE) Responsibilities include: * Plans and administers performance tests on aeronautical equipment, controls, systems, and other ...

ORSA Technologies is seeking experienced Operational Test Engineer (OTE) Responsibilities include: * Plans and administers performance tests on aeronautical equipment, controls, systems, and other ...

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How much do operational test jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for operational test in the United States is $20.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Operational Test Analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Operational Test Analyst, you need a solid understanding of test methodologies, systems analysis, and data evaluation, often supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with test management tools, data analysis software, and sometimes certifications like ISTQB are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help you interpret results and collaborate with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure accurate, reliable testing that improves product quality and operational effectiveness.

What are common challenges faced by professionals in Operational Test roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Operational Test roles often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple stakeholders, adapting test plans to evolving requirements, and managing tight deadlines. Successfully addressing these challenges involves strong communication skills, proactive risk management, and the ability to adapt quickly to changes in operational environments. Building collaborative relationships with engineering, program management, and end-user teams also helps ensure tests are meaningful and results are actionable.

What is an Operational Test?

An Operational Test is a formal evaluation process where a system, product, or process is tested under realistic operating conditions to determine its effectiveness, suitability, and reliability for intended use. This type of testing is often used in industries like defense, aviation, and technology to ensure that equipment or software performs as expected in real-world scenarios. Operational tests are usually conducted by independent teams and are a critical step before full-scale deployment or adoption. The results help organizations identify potential issues and make informed decisions about the readiness of a system.

What is the difference between Operational Test vs Quality Assurance Tester?

AspectOperational TestQuality Assurance Tester
CredentialsTypically requires technical knowledge, sometimes certifications in testing or systemsOften requires certifications in QA methodologies, testing tools, or software testing
Work EnvironmentConducted in operational or real-world settings, often on live systemsPerformed in controlled environments, focusing on software or product quality
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by defense, military, or government agencies to evaluate systemsCommon in software, manufacturing, and tech industries for product quality checks

Operational Test and Quality Assurance Tester roles both involve testing, but Operational Tests focus on evaluating systems in real-world conditions, often in government or defense sectors. QA Testers primarily focus on ensuring product quality in controlled environments across various industries.

More about Operational Test jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Operational Test jobs? The most popular types of Operational Test jobs are:
Operational Test Engineer

Operational Test Engineer

KBR

Dallas, TX

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


KBR rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 351 rated engineering


Job description

Title:

Operational Test Engineer

We're seeking an experienced Operational Test Engineer to lead and execute operational test planning, conduct ground and flight test activities, and deliver timely, data-driven reporting for the Navy's Advanced Sensor Technologies Program Office (AST PO) in either Pax River, MD, or Dallas, TX. In this role, you will support Working Integrated Product Teams (WIPTs), readiness reviews, and assessments by OPTEVFOR and DOT&E under the direction of the Operational Test Director (OTD). You'll ensure testing is performed in accordance with the Integrated Evaluation Framework (IEF) to meet or exceed acceptability standards and the Test & Evaluation Master Plan (TEMP).

Roles & Responsibilities

  • Program & Governance Participation: Participate in and provide subject-matter expertise to WIPT meetings, Operational Test Readiness Reviews (OTRR), Flight Readiness Reviews (FRR), and assessments by OPTEVFOR and DOT&E as directed by the OTD. Ensure operational testing aligns with the IEF and meets acceptability criteria and TEMP objectives for cost, schedule, and performance.
  • Test Planning & Documentation: Develop accurate, detailed, and timely artifacts: test plans, data collection plans, flight test descriptions, vignettes, test procedures, briefings, run sheets, test cards, data analysis summaries, interim/final test reports, and system deficiency reports in support of AST and OPTEVFOR requirements. Coordinate with program staff, military, and contractor personnel to ensure test objectives and schedules are achieved within budget and performance thresholds identified in the TEMP.
  • Ground & Flight Test Execution: Lead ground and flight planning, test execution, asset coordination, range services, and airspace/water space coordination. Plan and execute exercises/scenarios; manage personnel coordination; conduct flight briefs/debriefs, mission replays, and analyses. Collect and analyze system data using test instrumentation, operator/test conductor logs, environmental predictions, and target/range truth data. Coordinate field work and ground test support with test ranges and remote sites; execute ground support; collect truth data; document test events. Ensure ground tests meet specific test requirements and data needs.
  • Data Collection & Analysis: Provide analytical support and recommendations for data collection plans; coordinate with Flight Test Engineers (FTEs) and aircrew to ensure specific data requirements are met. Perform data reduction and preliminary statistical analysis to validate data and assess compliance against system specifications; support Critical Operational Issue (COI) resolution.

Basic Qualifications:

  • Education & Experience: Must have a BS Degree in Engineering/Technical field + 10 years of experience.
  • Clearance & Citizenship: TS/SSBI CLEARANCE IS REQUIRED. Must be a US Citizen.
  • Experience working in a classified security environment
  • Experience working with engineering teams to evaluate, integrate, and deliver radar and sensor technologies

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Prior role as Ground Test Conductor and/or Flight Test Engineer on Navy or other airborne systems
  • Experience with test range operations, airspace/water space coordination, and asset scheduling.
  • Familiarity with AST requirements and mission vignettes development.
  • Familiarity with telemetry/data acquisition systems, mission replay tools, and configuration/data management systems.
  • Knowledge of MATLAB, Python, or R languages for data reduction and analysis
  • Knowledge of DoD 5000-series T&E processes, CJCSI, and NAVAIR/OPTEVFOR test practices.
  • Certifications: CTEP, INCOSE, ASEP/CSEP, PMP, Six Sigma/Design of Experiments (DOE).
  • Effective oral and written communication skills. Effective organizational skills with the ability to multitask in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. Demonstrated ability to work with integrated teams comprised of military, civilian, and contractor personnel.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office products
  • Experience developing and using tools and statistical methodologies to analyze data

Scheduled Weekly Hours: 40 hours/week

Travel: 15%

Compensation: $117,000-$147,000. The salary range posted is based on the national average. The offered rate will be based on the selected candidate's location, knowledge, skills, abilities, and/or experience, contract affordability, and in consideration of internal parity.

Additional Compensation: KBR may offer bonuses, commissions, or other forms of compensation to certain job titles or levels per internal policy or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, short-term incentives, long-term incentives, or discretionary payments for exceptional performance.

KBR Benefits: KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development.

Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR
At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team's philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver - Together.

KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.


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About KBR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At KBR, we partner with government and industry clients to provide purposeful and comprehensive solutions with an emphasis on efficiency and safety. With a full portfolio of services, proprietary technologies and expertise, our employees are ready to handle projects and missions from planning and design to sustainability and maintenance. Whether at the bottom of the ocean or in outer space, our clients trust us to deliver the impossible on a daily basis.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1998